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Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) drive launched
Part of: Prelims and GS II – Health
Context Union Health Minister launched a nationwide expansion of Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
- It was for the first time in the country that PCV would be available for universal use.
- Pneumonia was a leading cause of death among children under five, globally and in India.
About Pneumonia
- A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia.
- Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus is the most common cause of severe pneumonia in children.
- Around 16% of deaths in children occur due to pneumonia in India.
- The nationwide roll-out of PCV will reduce child mortality by around 60%
- symptoms of pneumonia: Chest pain when you breathe or cough, changes in mental awareness, Cough, which may produce phlegm, Fatigue, Fever, chills, etc.
- Treatments include antibiotics, antivirals and anti fungal medications.
- Healthy diet, hygiene, vaccinations are some of the ways to prevent pneumonia.
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